The largest fish on Earth is enigmatic, its size surprises at first sight and has returned to Baja, as it does every year as part of its journey to feed.
To the south of the City of Ensenada, in Bahía de los Ángeles -a place that I will now catalog as the "Earthly Paradise" - you can find the shelter of this great species: The whale shark.
It is curious how we, residents of this beautiful region, don't know the small gifts nature bestows us with, compared to other parts of Mexico.
This beautiful sight is enough for you to embark on the adventure and travel through the landscapes on the Transpeninsular road, which goes lower portion of Baja California and shows you the secrets that guard this bay.
Departing from Tijuana, the 8 hour trip is worth it, and although it seems a long and tiring journey, you can stop in the several communities of Ensenada before you arrive at your final destination.
My closest reference to Bahia de Los Angeles was a simple Google search; photographs that seemed to be sculpted in an editing program, those that make you question if they are real or not due to landscape's perfection.
When I arrived, I discovered, as I mentioned earlier, that in fact, the bay is an "earthly paradise"; is the oasis in the desert and the photographs were nothing compared to what my eyes had in front of them.
I was astonished by the contrast of its desert area with the crystal clear waters, framed by dreamy beaches, huge cirio cacti and cardones. Some beaches had white sand and others had smooth stones carved by the sea.
And right there, among its set of small islands, you'll find the Rhincodon typus, whose sighting season starts in June, and ends in November every year. The species is attracted by plankton that breeds in warm waters, its main source of food.
Walking around the area, seeing flora and fauna of the region, exploring small islands with different forms, swimming with sea lions, visiting virgin beaches, and more, are part of the trip activity program.
The whale shark sighting is at the top of the list of things to do in Bahia de los Angeles. Entering the sea to have contact with this species is certainly something that will mark your life.
And although little is known of this giant fish, which can reach 20 meters in length, it's very clear that you can consider it a friendly species with which you can swim in peace while they feed.
The first contact you have with this species is impressive, as you immerse yourself in a new dimension, which perplexes anyone. It can be watched closely as it opens its mouth to ingest food and slides through the water by your side.
Their white spots are unique in each of them, as if they were their fingerprints.
How to get to Bahia de los Ángeles?
Different tourist agencies in the area offer the tour depending on the demands of visitors. The average cost per trip of 4 hours, with a capacity of up to 6 people per boat is $200.00 dlls.
Without an agency or assistance, one can reach Bahia de Los Angeles by taking Highway 1 from Tijuana, pass the Port of Ensenada and continue south until shortly before Punta Prieta, and go East from there until you reach your destination.
Exact location here
There are several aspects to consider if you want to swim with the whale sharks, including having a distance of two meters with it, do not touch it or ride it, respect the protected area, and always swim with certified people.
Take sunblock, drinking water, suitable clothing and accessories such as caps and fins with you for a more enjoyable experience.
Why not start exploring the natural wonders that Baja offers you? This ecotourism option is suitable for lovers of nature and adventurous souls.
Who can help you get there?
We recommend the services of "Ricardos Diving Tours". Contact them at 012001249264
When?
The whale shark can be observed from June to November, so you still have plenty of time to try this experience; but If you want to avoid the intense heat of the region, you can go and visit in September.
angel.garcia@sandiegored.com
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Translated by:cristina.mora@sandiegored.com
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